Lamine Yamal left out of the 2026 World Cup? | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal excluded from the 2026 World Cup?

Lamine Yamal left out of the 2026 World Cup?

Lamine Yamal is only 18 years old, but he is already dividing Spain in a way few prodigies ever have before him. Crowned European champion with La Roja in 2024, shining for FC Barcelona, runner-up in the latest Ballon d'Or: on the pitch, the young winger ticks every box of a football phenomenon. Yet, something has cracked in public perception. Admiration has turned to fatigue, then to tension. His provocations, sometimes perceived arrogance, and constant media exposure have created a climate where his every move is scrutinized. More and more voices are now calling for stricter discipline... or even his temporary exclusion from the national team.

"He won't last long," "I wouldn't take him": anger is rising

Javier Clemente, a legendary figure in Spanish football and former national team coach, did not hesitate to voice his concerns bluntly. Speaking to Cadena SER, he warned the player about his off-the-pitch behavior: "As a player, he's very good, but the problem is if he doesn't behave properly in his private life." According to him, Yamal's future is at risk if he doesn't change course quickly: "He won't last long, that's clear."

Even more surprising, criticism has also come from the media. A journalist from El Desmarque even called for him to be left out of the squad for the 2026 World Cup:

This radical stance shows the growing exasperation surrounding the young Blaugrana. Yesterday's precocious idol, today's vulnerable target, Yamal now faces a challenge rarely encountered at his age: learning to handle fame to protect both his career and his football.